Data management and order delivery system

ABSTRACT

A digital data management and order delivery system is provided. The system includes a storage device for storing digital data and a searching engine for developing a subset of the digital data stored in the storage device in response to inputs received from a first user. The system is also provided with a job order developer responsive to inputs received from the first user for developing a job order which includes: a) at least one copy of the digital data contained in the subset and identified by the first user; and b) a file containing information developed by the first user outside the system. In addition, the system includes a router for electronically routing the job order compiled by the job order developer to a second user specified by the first user.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to data management andpublishing, and, more particularly, to a data management and orderdelivery system for providing storage of data such as digital images andfor routing and delivering orders incorporating a selected subset of thestored data to a publishing facility or the like.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

As computers have attained more and more of a prominent role invirtually every aspect of life and every type of business, the need toeffectively and efficiently store digital data has intensified. Thisneed is particularly acute in the context of digital images where largeamounts of computer memory can be consumed by a single high resolutionimage. Thus, businesses and the like that frequently develop digitalimages can find themselves quickly depleting their in-house, on-linestorage capabilities for such assets. Businesses in such a position haveoften reacted by storing these assets off-line, in magnetic or opticalstorage mediums such as floppy disks and compact disks. In someinstances, the digital asset is deleted and retained only in the form ofa hard copy, such as a transparency that can be digitized through ascanning process should a future use for the image arise.

While these approaches have alleviated some of the capacity problemsassociated with storing digital assets, they have suffered from certaindeficiencies. For example, off-line storage such as that described aboveinherently leads to inefficiencies such as administrative costsassociated with cataloging digital assets, delays in locating digitaldata and, in some instances, loss of the asset altogether. Moreover, inthose instances where assets are stored in hard copy form astransparencies or the like, re-scanning an image for future use can leadto inefficient redundancies such as repeating digital re-touching, imagecorrection, or color correction procedures and the like. Further, theconversion from digital data to hard copy form and back can result indegradation of image quality.

The rapidly increasing value of digitized images has heightened theimportance of efficiently and safely storing and managing digitalassets. Indeed, the explosive growth of the internet is indicative of anunprecedented demand for digital media assets and the correspondingincreased value such assets are presently enjoying.

The advertizing and publishing industries are both significantlyimpacted by the ready accessibility (or lack thereof) of digital images.By way of example, advertizing agencies often utilize images of productsor the like in the publications they create for their clients. Oftenthese images take the form of photographs or transparencies. To create adistributable product, these agencies often forward the transparenciesor photographs to be published to an outside facility for digitizing.After the digital image is created, the outside agency typically storesthe data on a floppy disk or the like, and then either ships the digitaldata to a printer or returns the data to the agency for incorporation ina document to be printed. The printer can then print the desiredquantity of the publication.

If, subsequently, the need for additional copies of the publicationarises and none of the involved entities has maintained a copy of thedigital image, the entire process of shipping the transparencies orphotographs to the digitizing facility, scanning the images, andforwarding the re-created digital images to the printer must berepeated. Such a process leads to undesirable costs and possibledifferences between publication runs due to differences in anycorrections or modifications made to the digital image in the twoseparate digitization processes. These same costs and difficulties canarise in instances where it becomes desirable to re-use a digital assetin a different publication or in a different format altogether (e.g.,utilizing an image from a movie in an advertizing brochure).

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention overcomes the drawbacks of the prior art byproviding a digital image management and order delivery system. Thesystem is provided with a storage device for storing digital images. Italso includes a searching engine for developing a subset of the digitalimages stored in the storage device in response to inputs received froma first user. The searching engine is adapted to download low resolutioncopies of the subset to the first user. The system is also provided witha job order developer responsive to inputs received from the first userfor developing a job order which includes: a) at least one highresolution copy of a digital image contained in the subset andidentified by the first user, and b) a file containing informationdeveloped by the first user outside of the system. In addition, thesystem includes a router for electronically routing the job orderdeveloped by the job order developer to a second user specified by thefirst user.

In some embodiments the system is provided with one or more of thefollowing: an image handler for processing digital images input into thesystem; a user identifier for discriminating between users communicatingwith the system to control access to the digital images stored in thestorage device; an event tracker for monitoring and recording predefinedevents occurring in the system; means for developing a charge to beaccessed a user for at least one of the events recorded by the eventtracker; a communication device for receiving and transmitting data toone or more remote users; and means for developing miniaturizeddepictions of the subset developed by the searching engine. In somepreferred embodiments, the file in the job order developed by the joborder developer defines a document to be printed; the second user is aprinter; and the at least one high resolution image is to be printed aspart of the document.

Further, any of the foregoing embodiments can be provided with means forreceiving digital data from a data provider user to be stored in thestorage device; and, means for compressing the digital data received bythe receiving means in accordance with a parameter set by the dataprovider user. In some embodiments, the parameter defines a compressionformat to be employed by the compressing means. In others, the parameterdefines a degree of compression to be employed by the compressing means.Any of the foregoing embodiments can be provided with means fordeveloping an indication of a charge to be assessed the data provideruser for storing the digital data in the storage device. In instanceswhere such a charge developing means is provided, it can develop acharge based on the amount of storage memory utilized by the digitaldata; based on the amount of time the digital data is stored in thestorage device; or both.

A method of managing digital images is also provided to overcome thedrawbacks of the prior art. The method comprises the steps of: storing ahigh resolution and a low resolution copy of each of a plurality ofdigital images in an electronically searchable format; permitting afirst user to locate and download a low resolution copy of at least oneof the digital images; receiving an electronic file defining a documentfrom the first user, the document being designed to incorporate the atleast one digital image and data developed outside of the system;receiving instructions from the first user directing that the electronicfile be delivered to a second user; and, automatically routing theelectronic file and a high resolution copy of the at least one digitalimage to the second user identified by the first user for publication.

The noted deficiencies of the prior art are also overcome by providing adata management system of the following type. Such a data managementsystem includes means for storing first and second sets of data. Each ofthe first sets of data has a first bandwidth communication requirement.Each of the second sets of data is representative of an associated oneof the first sets of data and has a second bandwidth communicationrequirement less than the first bandwidth communication requirement. Thesystem also includes means for allowing a user to download a particularsecond set of data from the storing means and means for accepting a workorder from a first location wherein the work order identifies theparticular second set of data and includes further data developedoutside the system. The system is also provided with means forelectronically routing a job order to a second location, and means fordownloading the first set of data associated with the second set of datato the second location.

Pursuant to another important aspect of the invention, a digital datastorage facility for providing storage for a plurality of third partyusers is provided. The storage facility is provided with a storagedevice; means for receiving digital data from a user in the plurality;means for compressing the digital data received by the receiving meansin accordance with a parameter set by the user; and, means for storingthe digital data compressed by the compressing means in the storagedevice. In certain preferred embodiments, the parameter defines acompression format to be employed by the compressing means. In otherembodiments, the parameter defines a degree of compression to beemployed by the compressing means. In any of these embodiments, thestorage facility may be provided with means for developing an indicationof a charge to be assessed the user for storing the digital data in thestorage device. The charge developing means may develop charges based onthe amount of storage memory utilized by the digital data; on the amountof time the digital data is stored in the storage device; or both.

The deficiencies of the prior art are also overcome by providing adigital data management and order delivery system of the following type.Such a system includes a storage device for storing digital data; asearching engine for developing a subset of the digital data stored inthe storage device in response to inputs received from a first user; ajob order developer for receiving a work order from the first user andfor developing a job order based on the work order; and, a router forelectronically routing the job order developed by the job orderdeveloper to a second user specified by the first user. In someembodiments the work order includes a file containing informationdeveloped by the first user outside of the system and the job orderincludes the file. The file may comprises a page description languagefile. In any of the foregoing embodiments, the work order can identifydigital data contained in the subset and the job order can include thedigital data identified in the work order.

The present invention also overcomes drawbacks of the prior art byproviding a data management system comprising a host server, and aremote server in selective communication with the host server. Theremote server includes means for requesting a first set of data from thehost server and means responsive to the requesting means for developinga second set of data defining instructions and identifying a third setof data corresponding to the first set of data. The host server includesmeans for developing a fourth set of data in accordance with theinstructions in the second set and means for routing the fourth set ofdata to a jobber. In some embodiments, the second set of data includes apage description language file; the first set of data comprises a lowresolution image, and the third set of data includes a high resolutionimage corresponding to the low resolution image; and/or, the hostserver, the remote server and the job are interconnected via a network.In any of the foregoing embodiments, the third set of data can be thefirst set of data and/or the second set of data can include the firstset of data.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates generally a data management and work order deliverysystem constructed in accordance with the teachings of the presentinvention and shown in one possible environment of use.

FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of a preferred embodiment of theinventive system shown in an environment of use.

FIGS. 3A-3B together comprise flow charts illustrating the overalloperation of the system of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 4A-4C together comprise flow charts illustrating one possibleembodiment of the autolog routine of the system of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating one possible embodiment of thehousekeeping routine of the system of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating one possible embodiment of the loginroutine of the system of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 7A-7C together comprise flow charts illustrating one possibleembodiment of the browse routine performed by the system of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 8A-8C together comprise flowcharts illustrating one possibleembodiment of the order routine of the system of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 9A-9B together comprise flowcharts illustrating one possibleembodiment of the administration routine of the system of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 10A-10J are system diagrams illustrating the preferred operationof the system of FIG. 2.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

A data management and work order delivery system constructed inaccordance with the teachings of the invention is illustrated generallyin FIG. 1. As detailed below, the system is implemented to provide acentralized database that can be accessed, searched and modified byauthorized users. Although the system can be used to store any type ofdigital data, in the most preferred embodiments it is primarily utilizedto store digital images. As explained below, the system is also adaptedto serve as a job order developer and conduit for routing files from abrowser or client such as an advertizing agency to a jobber or suppliersuch as a printer. Thus, the system is preferably adapted both to storedigital assets and to facilitate use of those assets by providing aready means for distributing assets to authorized users.

This combination of capabilities renders the system ideally suited forfacilitating publication and the like. For example, a first user such asa corporation, may have a number of digitized images of its products. Inorder to provide easy access to those images and to efficiently utilizeits in-house computer storage facilities, that corporation can savethese digital assets on the data management system. If, on occasion, thecorporation wishes an advertizing agency to create a publication, suchas a brochure or web page, incorporating one or more of those digitalimages, the corporation need only provide the agency with access to thesystem.

Once given permission and provided with suitable password information,the advertizing agency could then access the system; search the databaseof the corporation's digital images; and download low resolution copiesof images to be used in the publication. The agency would thendisconnect or logoff from the system and begin its efforts to create adocument incorporating the downloaded images. Upon completion of thatprocess, the agency would re-connect to the system to request that thesystem electronically route the created document with high resolutioncopies of the selected digital images to a publishing entity such as aprinter, where the finalized brochure would be published.

Advantageously, the low-resolution images downloaded to the agencypreferably have a relatively low bandwidth communication requirement andcan be transmitted in a relatively short amount of time. Such images arealso far less taxing on the computer resources of the agency during thecreation of the brochure than high resolution copies of those sameimages. After the images are stored on the system, high resolutionversions of the images, with their relatively high bandwidthcommunication requirements and relatively long transmission times, arepreferably only downloaded when required; such as when printing orotherwise publishing a finalized product incorporating such images.

Although in the presently preferred embodiment, low resolution and highresolution images are selectively employed to achieve the advantagesdiscussed above, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate thatimprovements in areas such as compression technology could ultimatelylimit or eliminate those advantages. Accordingly, those skilled in theart will appreciate that the system could also be implemented todownload and route digital images having the same or substantially thesame resolution without departing from the scope or spirit of theinvention.

As used herein, “high resolution” refers to digital data as originallystored on the system. As used herein, “low resolution” is anyabbreviated version of the originally stored data. “Low resolution” canmean that the subject copy of the data has a different size than theoriginal data (e.g., 3 inches by 2 inches instead of 6 inches by 4inches), or that the subject copy of the data has a lesser amount ofinformation than the original data (e.g., 100 pixels instead of 800pixels).

Also, as used herein, “publication” refers to any conveyance ofinformation via any medium. Examples of publication include, withoutlimitation, storing, displaying, distributing, or otherwise conveyingdata on a printed page, on a display screen such as a CRT, on a webpage, on a video tape, on an audiotape, on a compact disc, on a digitalvideo disc, on a floppy disc, and/or in a broadcast communication.

In order to provide the centralized storage noted above, the system ispreferably provided with a host system 10. As illustrated in FIG. 2,although the host system 10 can be implemented in a wide variety ofways, in the preferred embodiment it is implemented by a number ofprogrammed processing devices in the form of task specific serversconnected via a local area network (LAN) 18. As shown in FIG. 2, theseservers preferably are: a telecommunication server 22 for effectingcommunication with users and the like; an internet server 24 forsupporting internet applications such as a web page as well assupporting communication via the internet; a mail server 26 forperforming e-mail and fax messaging; a file storage server 28 forcontrolling access to the digital data; an SQL database server 30 forperforming text-based searching and controlling storage of operating andother data; and an autolog server 32 for processing digital data to bestored on the system 10. Any server system can be implemented toundertake at least some of these functions without departing from thescope of the invention including, without limitation, IBM®, IBM®compatible, Intel® based compatible, and Digital Equipment® Alpha® basedor Alpha® based compatible systems. Preferably, the system runs on theWindows NT® server operating system, but other operating systems wouldalso be appropriate.

For the purpose of effecting the database functions described above, thehost system 10 includes storage means for storing high and lowresolution image data having high and low bandwidth communicationrequirements, respectively. In the preferred embodiment, the storagemeans is implemented by an optical data reader serviced by an opticaldisk robot 20, although other storage devices such as the tape robot 32shown in FIG. 2 are likewise appropriate. The host system 10 ispreferably also provided with other storage devices including a tape oroptical robot driven storage device 34 to perform backup of operatingsystem and transactional software, and an external RAID sub-system 36for buffering client data. Of course, some or all of the serversmentioned above would also have internal hard drives for additionalstorage. Exemplary devices for implementing these devices include,without limitation, a Quantum DLT 2000 digital linear tape drive (34), aDocument Imaging Systems Corp. (DISC) D-255U Optical tape robotsub-system (32), and an nSTOR model CR8e-390T 27 gigabyte tower RAIDsubsystem (36).

To permit data files to be input and moved to the various storagedevices 20, 32, 34, 36 of the host system 10, as well as to permitco-operative operation of the various servers 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32,the servers are preferably networked together using an industry standardlocal area network (LAN) 18. One possible example of such a LANimplementation includes, without limitation, connecting the servers witha 10Base-T twisted category 5 twisted pair cable (10megabit/sec—Ethernet 802.3 protocol). By way of example, not limitation,higher bandwidth requirement systems may substitute 100 Base-T (100megabit/sec) connections or ATM (asynchronous transfer mode) at 155megabits/sec connected with category 5 twisted pair or fiber opticconnections.

As shown in FIG. 1, the host system 10 is adapted for communication witha plurality of users including, without limitation, browsers and clientorderers 12, image providers 14, and jobbers 16. Image providers 14 are,generally speaking, the owners or developers of digital data to bestored on the system. They are the users that wish to take advantage ofthe efficiencies associated with the centralized storage and electronicrouting capabilities offered by the system. Jobbers or suppliers 16 are,generally speaking, agencies such as printers, broadcasters, and thelike. Browsers and orderers 12 are users given permission by the imageproviders 14 to access the database. Examples of browsers and orderersinclude advertising agencies, consultants, and the like.

As generally illustrated in FIG. 1, communication between the hostsystem 10 and the various users 12, 14, 16 can be effected by any knownmeans of connectivity. For example, the users 12, 14, 16 can access thehost system 10 or communicate with one another through local areanetworks or wide area networks. Wide area networks can be implementedthrough dial-up or dedicated communication servers. Examples ofdedicated connections which could be used in this role include, withoutlimitation, a phone line with an asynchronous modem rated at 28.8 Kbpsor higher; ISDN dial-up BRI (basis rate interface) rated at 112 Kbps or128 Kbps; and ISDN dial-up PRI (primary rate interface) rated at 64 Kbpsup to 1.536 Mbps (or 1.920 Mbps in Europe). Examples of dedicatedconnections suitable for this role include, without limitation, a T1link between two locations (1.5 Mbps) or fractionalized T1; frame relay(56 Kbps to 1.5 Mbps); switched multi-megabit data service (SMDS); cablebroadband connections; synchronous optical network (SONET); point topoint directional microwave; or very small aperature satellite (VSAT)linkages. As shown in FIG. 1, dial-up telephone communication can bedirect or via the internet. If desired, the host system 10 and users 12,14, 16 can be hardwired to one another as an intranet.

Preferably the host site 10 is adapted for communication with usershaving a wide variety of computer systems. For example, the suppliersand browsers 12, 16 can be provided with a workstation or personalcomputer (PC) 38 and a modem 40. Optionally, these users can be providedwith a hard-copy output device such as a printer 42 as shown in FIG. 2.By way of example, not limitation, the workstation or PC's 38 may beimplemented as an IBM®, IBM® compatible, any Intel® based compatible,Digital Equipment® Alpha® based, Alpha® based compatible, Apple®Macintosh®, Sun SPARC®, Sun compatible, or Internet appliance computersystem. Although other operating systems may likewise be appropriate,these workstations or PC's preferably run Microsoft® Windows 95®,Windows NT®, Windows NT® Workstation, MAC OS 7.X, Sun Solaris®, MACNext, OS/2 or any other operating system capable of running MicrosoftInternet Explorer®, Netscape Navigator® or any other suitable browser.

Although other configurations and systems are appropriate, the computersystem(s) of the image provider users 14 are preferably implemented by atelecommunication server 43, a provider server 44, and one or moreworkstations 46. As with users 12, 16, the computer system(s) of theimage provider user 14 can also optionally include a high resolutionscanner 48, and/or a hard-copy output device such as a printer 50 forprinting out local reports, work orders, and administrative reports. Byway of example, not limitation, the computer system(s) at the imageprovider user 14 can be implemented by an IBM®, IBM® compatible, anyIntel based compatible, Apple® Macintosh®, Digital Equipment® Alpha®based, or Alpha® based compatible computer. The computer systems at theimage provider 14 preferably operate the Microsoft Windows NT® serveroperating system, but other operating systems such as the UNIX operatingsystem are also appropriate.

The operation and structure of the data management system will now bedescribed in connection with the flowcharts appearing as FIGS. 3-9. Asthose skilled in the art will appreciate, the majority of the softwareutilized to implement the data management system is run on serverslocated at the host site 10. However, parts of the software can also berun locally on the client machine. As the precise location where thesteps are executed can be varied without departing from the scope of theinvention, FIGS. 3-9 do not address which machine is performing whichfunctions. That subject is fully addressed in connection with FIG. 10below, after the overall system operation is described.

As mentioned above, in the preferred embodiment the software running thedata management system is executed on the computers located at the hostsite 10 and user locations 12, 14, 16. Preferably, the softwaregenerates a graphical user interface at each of these locations. Thegraphical user interface provides a user-friendly means for interactionbetween the system and users. The host software includes four maindatabases, namely, an image database, an activity database, aconfiguration database and a mail database. The image database isadapted for archiving low and high resolution copies of digital imagefiles. The image files are linked to an item record which includesinformation about the stored image files including, without limitation,pathnames to the low resolution and high resolution image files, aclient identification notation, and a number of user-specified fields ofinformation used for searching. The activity database is used to recordevents occurring at the system such as: storing new data on the system;deleting data from the system; logging on and off the system; performinga search on the system; downloading data from the system; and routing ajob order to a user. The mail database is used to store e-mail, faxnumbers, and conventional addresses for users. Finally, theconfiguration database is preferably used to save certain parameters forestablishing communications with and between users. These above-noteddatabases are managed by a database manager program running on the SQLdatabase server 30 such as Microsoft SQL. In the preferred embodiment,the image database is implemented by the SQL database server 30 and thefile storage server 28; the activity database is implemented by the SQLdatabase server 30; the configuration database is implemented by the SQLdatabase server 30; and the mail database is implemented by the SQLdatabase server 30 and the mailserver 26.

As those skilled in the art will appreciate, the host site 10 isprogrammed to communicate with a plurality of users at the same time.Thus, although in the following for ease of explanation the operatingsteps are described as occurring in a particular time sequence andaddressed as if a single user is interacting with the system, in realitythe system will preferably be adapted to perform any number of theoperating steps and routines at a given time. For example, the hostsystem 10 may be running the autolog routine (FIGS. 4A-4C) in responseto a communication from User A while also running the order routine(FIGS. 8A-8C) in its interaction with User B. Preferably, User A andUser B are completely unaware of the other's interaction with the systemand the system responds to the inputs of any given user as if that userwere the only party interacting with the system.

Turning to the general operating software of the system depicted inFIGS. 3A-3B, when the system is first brought on-line at the host site10, a number of initialization processes are performed by a block 100.These initialization steps include such conventional housekeeping tasksas testing and configuring memory at the individual servers 22, 24, 26,28, 30, 32; establishing protocols for communication on the LAN 18;loading memory resident software into memory; and other administrativefunctions such as client user account setup, and client databasestructure setup. Some or all of these housekeeping functions areperformed by each of the servers 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32. The notedadministrative functions are performed by the administrative workstation8. After the system 10 has been properly initialized, a flag or counteris checked to determine whether it is time to call a housekeepingroutine depicted in FIG. 5 and discussed below (block 102).

Assuming the housekeeping routine is not called, the database managementsystem enters into a holding state where it continually checks for aninput from a user (blocks 104 and 106). Such an input can take the formof an attempt to log in to the system or the delivery of a data file forstorage on the system. Assuming for purposes of explanation that thedatabase management system determines that a data file has been receivedfor storage in the storage device at the host site 10 (block 106), thesystem will identify the client who sent the file and call the autologroutine (block 108).

Upon initialization of the autolog routine (FIG. 4A), the autolog server32 first determines whether the received file is compressed (block 200).If it is not compressed, the server stores the received file in atemporary file (block 204). If the received file is compressed, theserver 32 decompresses the file in accordance with conventionaldecompression algorithms (block 202) before storing the received datafile to the temporary file (block 204).

The autolog server 32 then polls the file storage server 28 to determinewhether the received file has the same filename as any existing file(block 206). If so, the autolog server 32 appends a suffix to thefilename of the newly received file (block 208). This approach isimplemented to ensure digital data archived on the database managementsystem is not lost or otherwise deleted unless an affirmative request todelete is received from an authorized user.

After an appropriate filename is chosen, the autolog server 34 createsan item record and stores it in the image database (block 210). Asmentioned above, item records are akin to summary sheets for the storeddigital data. They contain information identifying the pathnames oftheir associated image files (preferably low and high resolution copies)and include several user defined fields to enable searching. In thepreferred embodiment, the creation of the item record by block 210 doesnot render the digital data part of the searchable database. Instead,the image provider user must login to the system; review the itemrecord; optionally fill in the data fields to permit subsequentsearching; and approve the item record and its associated image forsearching. Only after the image provider user 14 approves the itemrecord is the status of the new data file changed to enable searching.This status change can be noted by a flag or field associated with theitem record.

After the item record is created and stored, the autolog server 32examines the newly received data file to determine whether it is animage file (block 212). If the data to be stored in the data managementsystem is not an image file, the system 10 skips ahead (block 214) toblock 226 in FIG. 4B. Assuming for the moment that an image file hasbeen received, the host site 10 generates a thumbnail representation ofthe image (block 216). This thumbnail representation is preferably aJPEG file that is developed by making a copy of the original file,discarding some of the pixel information, and shrinking the image toabout one square inch in size. The thumbnail representation is stored inthe image database. The newly created item record is then updated toinclude the pathname of the thumbnail file (block 217).

In accordance with an aspect of the invention, the autolog software andserver 34 can optionally be adapted to translate new image filesreceived from a user 14 into a predetermined file format. For example, auser 14 can instruct the system 10 to save its image files as taggedimage file format files. Upon receiving a new image file, the autologserver 34 determines whether the new file is in the predetermined format(in this instance, the TIFF format) (block 218). If not, the autologserver 34 translates the new image file into the predetermined fileformat (block 219). If the new file received from the user 14 is alreadyin the predetermined file format (block 218), the autolog server 34proceeds to block 220 without performing a translation. In order toenable the autolog server 34 to translate received files pursuant to theuser's instructions, the autolog software preferably includes atranslation matrix providing instructions on how to translate filesbetween commonly used file formats.

Regardless of whether a file format translation is performed, a fullscale, low resolution copy (hereinafter the “low res image” or “low rescopy”) of the image is then generated (block 220). As discussed above,this low resolution image will have a lower bandwidth communicationrequirement than the original, higher resolution image received from theimage provider user.

In accordance with an aspect of the invention, the autolog software andserver 34 are adapted to perform a user-defined type of compression onthe image data to be stored pursuant to a preset, user defined,compression value. For example, if TIFF (tagged image file format) or CT(Scitex continuous tone) files are passed to the autolog server 34, andthe image provider user 14 has previously indicated that its files areto be compressed in accordance with a medium value Adobe® JPEGcompatible compression technique, the autolog server 34 invokes theappropriate compression algorithm, applies the compression routine, andstores the image file in the image database in the manner specified bythe user 14 (block 222). To this end, the autolog server 34 ispreferably provided with a library of industry standard algorithms whichcan be invoked as required to perform the compression type and levelrequested by the user. Preferably, the image provider user will specifyits desired compression algorithm and compression value when its accountis opened, and this information will be saved in the host system 10 foruse when new files arrive.

Following the block 222, the autolog server 34 then updates thecorresponding image record to include the pathname of the low resolutionimage file (block 224). Subsequently, the autolog server 34 utilizes theuser compression algorithm specified by the user to compress and storethe original image file, which is preferably a high resolution digitalimage, in the appropriate database (block 226). As with the processingof the low-res image file, the server 34 preferably updates theassociated item record to include the pathname of the original imagefile (block 228). Preferably, both the low resolution and the originalimage file are stored in the file format selected by the user if theoption discussed in connection with blocks 218 and 219 is implemented.

As shown in FIG. 4C, the autolog server 34 next determines whether aspecial low resolution format file such as an OPI (Open Pre-pressInterface) file should be created from the original image file (block230).

Depending upon the implementation selected, this step can be performedin a number of ways. For example, the image provider user 14 can specifythat all of its files are to include OPI versions. This information canbe saved on the system 10 and, whenever a new file is received from thatparticular user, the prior instruction is checked and the OPI file iscreated by the autolog server 34 (block 232). Alternatively, the autologsoftware could recognize a request for an OPI version forwarded with theoriginal file and execute the blocks 232, 234. Under either approach,the server 34 skips blocks 232 and 234 when an OPI file is not desired.When an OPI file is indicated, the server 34 creates and stores the file(block 232), and updates the item record with the OPI pathname (block234).

As shown in FIG. 4C, the autolog routine is completed by logging theactivity in the activity database (block 236). By way of example, notlimitation, the system 10 could log such things as the date on which thefile was stored; the amount of memory used by the stored files; and/orthe presence of an OPI file. These recorded events can be used later togenerate invoices to the appropriate image provider users 14 asexplained below. Preferably, the autolog server 34 interacts with thedatabase server 30 via the LAN 18 to log the noted activity.

Returning to FIG. 3A, after the autolog routine is completed, the system10 again checks to see if the time for performing the housekeepingroutine has arrived (block 102). If it has not (as will be assumed forthe present), the system 10 continues to cycle among blocks 102, 104 and106 until a user transmits another file, a user attempts to log in; orthe time for performing the housekeeping routine arrives.

When the system 10 determines that a user 12, 14, 16 is attempting tolog in, the login routine is called. Each image provider user 14 isisolated from all other image provider users 14 by a unique clientidentification number. In the preferred embodiment, this numbercomprises five digits. Each user of this system is assigned a uniqueprefix code, (in the presently preferred embodiment 3 digits). Thisprefix code is used to secure the file stored in the database managementsystem from unauthorized access. Each image provider user 14 can specifyusers (such as browsers and client orderers 12 and jobbers 16) who areto be granted access to the files of that particular image provider user14. Each such specified user is assigned a user name and password. Aswill become apparent from the following, this authorization scheme isused by the host system 10 in conjunction with the login routine toprovide a user discriminator for discriminating between userscommunicating with the system to control user access to the digital datastored on the database management system.

Significantly, the digital data of every image provider user 14 istransparent to all users except those users authorized to view the data.In other words, if Image Provider A and Image Provider B have bothstored data on the data management system, and Image Provider A hasauthorized User C to search and access its data, User C will not only beprevented from accessing the data of Image Provider B, but User C willnot even be able to tell that Image Provider B has stored data on thesystem. Indeed, if desired, the system can be configured to display awelcome screen or the like to authorized users logging in under a givenImage Provider User's authority that indicates that the database of thatparticular Image Provider User is being addressed. In such an approach,a user might not even realize they are addressing a centralized,third-party data storage facility available to many different entities.

In any event, when the login routine is called, the internet server 24of the host system 10 interacts with the user logging in via thecommunication servers 22, 24 to receive various inputs. Specifically, asshown in FIG. 6, the internet server 24 determines whether the subjectuser has entered a valid client identification number (block 300), avalid user identification name authorized by the client identified inblock 300 (block 302), and the appropriate password (block 304). If atany of these blocks (300-304) the system 10 determines that an incorrectresponse has been entered, the login routine is terminated (block 306)and the system 10 returns to Step 102 in FIG. 3A. On the other hand, ifappropriate inputs are entered at each of blocks 300, 302 and 304, theinternet server records the log in of the identified user in theactivity database (block 308). In the preferred embodiment, the lengthof time a user remains logged into the system is recorded. Thus, inaddition to the user's identity, the internet server preferably recordsthe time at which the identified user gained access to the system atblock 308.

After logging this activity, the internet server 24 enters a loopillustrated by blocks 112, 116, 120, 126 and 130, in FIGS. 3A and 3B. Inthis loop, the system waits for the user to enter an input indicatingthat certain browsing activities are to be performed (block 112); a joborder is to be developed (block 116); administrative activities are tobe performed (block 120); or that the user wishes to log out (block126). Preferably, this arrangement is affected by means of the graphicaluser interface discussed above. Particularly, the “browse”, “order”,“administrative”, and “logout” inputs are preferably displayed aschoices on the user's screen. By selecting one of these inputs, the userwill preferably be given access to pull-down menus which provide furtheroptions and facilitate easy communication with the system 10.

Assuming for purposes of explanation that the user selects the browsecategory displayed on the graphical user interface (through a mouse orother conventional input device) (block 112), the internet server 24 ofthe database management system will enter the browse routine (block114). Upon entering the browse routine, the system 10 preferablydisplays a pull-down menu to the user listing possible actions to beperformed. One of the actions listed on the menu is preferably a searchrequest. If the user selects the search request from the menu (block400, FIG. 7A), the system 10 will request the user to enter searchparameters. Upon receipt of the search criteria, the internet server 24will then search the user-specified fields in the item records belongingto the authorizing image provided user 14 and compile a set of digitaldata that meets the search criteria (block 404). As shown in FIG. 7A,the system 10 then provides the user with an indication that the searchhas been completed (block 406), and sets a search flag (block 408)indicating that search results are pending.

Upon compilation of a search, the user preferably is afforded severaloptions for displaying the results. For example, the user is offered theopportunity to view the results as thumbnails (block 410), as text(block 414), or as a detailed report (block 418). If the user requeststhumbnails (block 410), the internet server 24 will utilize thethumbnail pathnames stored in the item records identified by the searchto locate and display thumbnail depictions of the search results on theuser's display device (block 412). If the stored data files are notimage files, dummy thumbnails in the form of standardized icons willpreferably be displayed.

If instead (or subsequently) the user requests a textual display (block414), the system will display textual information taken from the itemrecords identified in the search for viewing by the user (block 416).Examples of such textual information that could be displayed include:filename, a class field, a sub-class field, a category field, userdefined fields, the date in which the file was entered on the system,and/or the size of the file. Of course, other information could also bedisplayed, if desired, without departing from the scope or spirit of theinvention.

Finally, if the user decides to display a report (block 418), the system10 will request the user to identify the type of report desired. Uponreceipt of an appropriate user input, the internet server 24 willgenerate the requested report and display it on the user's screen (block420). Although many different types of reports could be generatedwithout departing from the scope of the invention, in the preferredembodiment, the system 10 offers the authorized user an opportunity toview reports concerning the current search results, browsing activity,storage statistics, and/or order transactions.

Regardless of the display format(s) utilized by the user, the user canidentify any or all of the data files identified in the search fordownloading (block 422). When such a request for downloading isreceived, the internet server 24 will utilize the pathname(s) in theappropriate item record(s) to locate and download copies of the selecteddata file(s) (block 424). If the selected data files are image files,low resolution copies of the files will be downloaded.

It bears emphasis that, as the data management system is intended toprovide secure and safe storage of data files, the system 10 ispreferably adapted to download copies, not originals, of the stored datafiles. The original stored data files are preferably maintained asread-only files that cannot be changed in the ordinary course. If animage provider user 14 wishes to change a data file, the preferredcourse is for the user 14 to upload a new modified data file and, ifdesired, mark the old file for deletion. Alternatively, the old file maybe maintained on the system indefinitely.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the internet server24 can be adapted to download selected files in a format selected by theuser requesting the file (blocks 423 and 425). For example, a user canoptionally be provided with an opportunity to select a file format suchas TIFF or CT before downloading a file from the system. As explainedabove in connection with the autolog routine (FIGS. 4A-4C), the systemis preferably provided with a translation matrix including instructionsas to how to translate files between commonly used file formats. Theinternet server can access this translation matrix to translate thefile(s) requested by the user prior to downloading.

In any event, after the selected data files have been downloaded, theinternet server logs the downloading activity in the activity database(block 426). Next, the internet server checks a flag to determinewhether the user has indicated a desire to leave the browse routine(block 428). If so, the system 10 returns to block 116 in FIG. 3A. Ifnot, the system jumps to block 400 in FIG. 7A to determine whether afurther search is desired. If the user indicates another search isdesired, the system proceeds to block 404 and continues through thebrowse routine as described above. If a further search is not requested,the system checks the status of the search flag (block 402) to determinewhether a search has already been compiled. If not, the system 10 waitsfor the user to request a search (block 400) or to exit the browseroutine (block 403). If a search has already been completed, the systemproceeds through blocks 410-428 to enable a user to continue to view thecurrent results and possibly download further files. The search flag ispreferably re-set to the “no search” status when the user logs off thesystem 10.

In any event, when the user exits the browse routine, the system 10proceeds to block 116 in FIG. 3A. In the typical case, the user who hascompleted the browse routine and downloaded low resolution images willnow log out of the system (block 126). The user can then use the lowresolution images on their local system to create a file such as abrochure or web page. In some instances, the user will create a pagedescription language (PDL) file which identifies one or more locationsfor the downloaded image in the finalized product.

Assuming for purposes of discussion the user has logged out, created afile incorporating an image located in a search of the database, and hasnow logged back onto the system 10 (blocks 104, 110), the user will thenagain have the opportunity to enter the browse routine (block 112) toperform further searching; to request delivery of a work order (block116); or to perform certain administrative tasks (block 120). Assumingthe user indicates a desire to place a work order (block 116), thesystem 10 will call the order routine (block 118) illustrated in FIGS.8A-8C.

Before proceeding with a description of the order routine, a fewdefinitions should be noted. As used herein, the term “work order”refers to the set of data transmitted from a first user to the hostsystem 10 requesting routing to a second user. The work order preferablyincludes a set of instructions identifying the second user andidentifying any files to be sent from the database. The work order mayalso include local files created outside of the system such as a PDLfile designed to incorporate one or more files from the database. Ifdesired, the work order could also include copies (low resolution orotherwise) of the files in the database which are to be sent to thesecond user, but such an approach is not presently preferred. However,as used herein, “identifying a file” includes forwarding a name or codespecifying a file, and/or forwarding the actual file or a (thumbnail,low-resolution, and/or high-resolution) copy thereof.

As used herein, the term “job order” refers to a collection of dataassembled or otherwise developed by the host system 10 for routing tothe second user. Preferably, the job order includes any local filesforwarded by the user in the work order, and copies of any data files inthe database that were identified in the work order by the first user.The job order is preferably developed and routed by the host system 10in accordance with the instructions contained in the corresponding workorder sent by the first user.

Upon entering the order routine, the system 10 will first download adestination and instruction form to the user for completion (block 500).After the user completes this form by identifying the identity of theuser who is to receive the work order and adding any desiredinstructions for the receiving user, the system will temporarily storethe destination and instruction form (block 502). Next, the sending useridentifies any data files such as high resolution images to be includedin the work order (block 504). The system will store the filename of anysuch file(s) (block 506). The sending user will then add any local files(e.g., files, such as PDL files, created outside the system, typicallyincorporating data from the database) to be included in the work order(blocks 508-510). If the sending user is satisfied that the order iscomplete (block 512), he will then cause the work order to be sent tothe host site 10 (block 514). Otherwise, the user will be afforded anopportunity to continue to review and revise the work order (block 513)until it is ready to be transmitted to the host site 10.

Upon receiving the work order, the host site 10 develops a job order inaccordance with the instructions contained in the work order. Thedevelopment of a job order is preferably initiated by the internetserver 24 which parses the destination and instruction form for theaddress of the receiving user (block 516). Next, the internet serverlocates any original data file(s) (such as high resolution imagefile(s)) identified in the work order (block 518). The original datafile(s) and any local documents contained in the work order are thencompressed (preferably, pursuant to a user defined algorithm asdiscussed above in connection with FIGS. 4A-4C) (block 520) andforwarded to the receiving user specified in the destination andinstruction form (block 522). Depending upon the instructions of thesending user, the destination and instruction form will then be e-mailedor faxed to the receiving user to notify the receiving user that a joborder is being sent (block 524). If the sending user had previouslyrequested confirmation (block 526), the system will next e-mail amessage to the sending user that the order has been compiled, sent to,and received by the specified destination (block 528). Finally, the hostsite 10 logs the order activity in the activity database (block 530).Activities that are preferably logged include, without limitation, theassembling of a job order; the size of the assembled job order; the dateand time the work order was received; the date and time the compiled joborder was transmitted; the dates and times the e-mail or fax messageswere sent to the receiving user and the sending user; the length oftransmission time required for the e-mail or fax transmissions; andwhether a confirmation was sent to the sending user.

At block 532 in FIG. 8C, the internet server determines whether thesending user has indicated a desire to exit the order routine. If theorder routine is exited, the internet server 24 enters block 120 of FIG.3B. Otherwise, the system returns to block 500 in FIG. 8A, where, uponreceipt of an indication that the user wishes to place another workorder, a new destination and instruction form will be downloaded. In thepreferred embodiment, blocks 500-514 are performed by the user's localcomputer system and blocks 516-532 are performed by the host site 10.

In the preferred embodiment, once a work order is received from asending user, the job order compilation, routing and messaging performedby the system at Steps 516-530 is completely automatic. In other words,once a work order is received by the host site 10, the system 10preferably performs blocks 516-530 without further human involvement.

After logging onto the system (blocks 104 and 110 of FIG. 3A), a usermay choose to perform various administrative tasks on the system (block120). These tasks include, without limitation, such activities as:obtaining reports; editing item records; removing data files from thesystem; adding new clients and users to the system; changing thesecurity status of users; and editing the compression scheme or storageformat used in the autolog routine (FIGS. 4A-4C). Of course, not allusers are authorized to perform all of these tasks. In the preferredembodiment, users are divided into client users, meaning all users notemployed by, or otherwise associated with, the owner of the databasemanagement system, and system users, meaning those users employed by, orotherwise associated with, the owner of the system. The individualswithin these two groups of users are further divided into read-onlyusers and administrative users. As the name suggests, read-only userscan view stored data files if given permission by an image provideruser, but cannot change the data stored on the system. Administrativeusers have the ability to edit various files such as item records. Thesedistinctions will be further clarified in the following.

Assuming for purposes of explanation that a user has indicated a desireto enter the administration mode (block 120 of FIG. 3B), the systemcalls the administration routine (block 124) illustrated in FIGS. 9A-9B.Upon entering this routine, the internet server first determines whetherthe user is a client-type user or a system-type user (block 600). In thepreferred embodiment, this determination is made based on theidentification information obtained during the login routine (FIG. 6).

Assuming for the time being that the user is a client-type user, theinternet server next preferably presents the user with a pull-down menupresenting options for proceeding. As shown in FIG. 9A, under oneoption, a user can request the generation of one or more reports ofvarious types (block 610). Representative types of reports that can berequested include, without limitation, activity reporting such ason-line browsing time (broken down on either a per user or per clientbasis); stored files summaries showing time in-system, storage cost,file size, resolution information, compression information, and/or filetype; new image input summaries for a given time period; lists of orderspending and processed; file purge reports showing the files purged fromthe system in a given time period; and invoices. Of course, users canonly gain access to such information if authorized by an image provideruser 14, and preferably image provider users 14 can only access, andauthorize access to, their own files and data relating to their ownfiles. In any event, if a report is requested and the user ispermissioned to access the data needed to generate the report (block611), the internet server generates and downloads the report (block614). If the user is not authorized to access the information in therequested report (block 611), a denial message is displayed (block 613).

If a user selects the edit item record option in the graphical userinterface (block 614), the internet server first determines whether theuser is a read-only type user or an administrative user (block 616). Ifthe user is a read-only type user, a denial message is generated anddisplayed (block 617) to the user. Otherwise, the item record the userwishes to edit is accessed and downloaded to the user. After the usermakes the desired changes, the edited item record is saved (block 618).These blocks (614-618) can be used by an image provider user 14 tocatalog its files by entering data into the user defined fields of theitem records described above. These fields preferably include a classfield, a sub-class field, a category key field and up to ten userdefined fields. Each class record can preferably have one or moresub-class records keyed to it.

As discussed above, when a user puts new data files on the system viathe autolog routine, those files are automatically processed and storedon the system. However, those files are preferably not searchable untila further affirmative authorization is received from the image provideruser 14. This arrangement affords the image provider user an opportunityto edit the item records of its new files such that its new files arecataloged into its library of files in an organized and searchablefashion. After editing new item records through blocks 614-618, a usercan preferably authorize those records for searching with a simplecommand.

If a user selects the remove item option at the graphical user interface(block 620), the internet server first determines whether the user is aread-only-type or an administrative-type user (block 622). If the useris a read-only-type user, a denial message is generated (block 624).Otherwise, the user is permitted to view the item records associatedwith the data files of the authorizing image provider user 14, and toselectively mark data files for purging (block 626). To avoid erroneousloss of data, the system preferably provides a grace period before thesemarked files are purged. During that grace period, authorized users can“unmark” any marked files, and thereby save such files from deletion. Inthe preferred embodiment, the grace period is 1 month.

At block 628 of FIG. 9B, the internet server 24 updates the activitydatabase as appropriate. If the user wishes to exit the administrativeroutine (block 630), the system returns to block 126 of FIG. 3B. If not,the internet server continues to process further report requests (block610), item record update requests (block 614), or purge requests (block620).

If at block 600 of FIG. 9A, the internet server determines that the useris a system-type user, the internet server proceeds to blocks 632-646.In particular, the internet server accepts inputs from a system userentering new image provider users 14, or entering new users forparticular pre-existing image provider users 14 (blocks 632 and 634);changing the security status of users between the read-only andadministrative status and vice versa (blocks 636 and 638); editing itemrecords (blocks 640-642); and editing the autolog configuration of imageprovider users by setting compression algorithms and compression valuesor setting format types. When the user indicates that it has completedits administrative tasks (block 630), the system will returns to block126 of FIG. 3B. As shown in FIG. 2, at least one administrativeworkstation 8 is preferably connected to the LAN 18 for use by systemusers.

Although changing security status (blocks 636-678), adding new users(blocks 632-634), and editing the autolog configuration (blocks 644-646)have been illustrated in FIGS. 9A-9B as functions exclusive to systemusers, those skilled in the art will appreciate that in some preferredembodiments these functions (other than adding image provider users 14)can also be made available to image provider users 14 and the users theyauthorize. Similarly, although requesting reports (blocks 610-613) isshown as a function exclusive to authorized client users, in someembodiments, system users may also perform these functions. In instanceswhere reports are generated (block 612), they can be displayed on adisplay device and/or sent to hard-copy generating devices withoutdeparting from the scope of the invention and regardless of the type ofuser requesting the report.

If after returning from the administrative routine the databasemanagement system determines that the user is logging out (block 126),the internet server records the log out time on the activity database(block 128) and returns to block 102 in FIG. 3A. Otherwise, the internetserver continues to await receipt of the browse input (block 112), theorder input (block 111), or the administration input (block 120) fromthe logged-in user.

As mentioned above, the database management system 102 periodicallycalls a housekeeping routine (blocks 102 and 103 of FIG. 3A). Turning toFIG. 5, the administrative workstation begins the housekeeping routineby generating an invoice for each of the image provider users 14 (block700). These invoices are developed by reference to the activities loggedin the activity log during a pre-defined billing period. Predefined onesof the events are assigned a charge by the system. All of the chargesfor a given image provider user 14 are preferably automaticallyorganized and displayed in an invoice. The completed invoices are thenautomatically routed via facsimile or e-mail to the users responsiblefor payment (block 702). Preferably, the invoices are routed to theappropriate users by the mail server 26 and the communication server 22.The addresses are preferably automatically retrieved from the maildatabase, and inserted into the invoices. Preferably, the billingprocess is performed once a month, but other billing periods can also beutilized if desired. Also, invoices preferably include charges forunpaid bills from prior billing periods.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that many billing arrangementscan be employed without departing from the scope of the invention.However, in the preferred embodiment charges are assessed for thefollowing events: a) time spent browsing files; b) storing files; c)downloading OPI or other low resolution format files; d) data fileentry; e) work order transactions; f) document transfers; and g) timespent performing administrative services. Browsing charges can beassessed for all of the time users spend logged on to the host system10, or only for time actually spent in the browse routine. Due to theuser's ability to select compression routines, storage charges arepreferably assessed on a per-file basis and a per-megabyte basis. Forexample, in the preferred embodiment, charges of $0.33/per file plus$0.13/MB are assessed for file storage. Due to their special nature,special charges are preferably applied to downloading OPI or other lowresolution format files. Preferably a flat fee per download is assessed.Data file entry charges are charges assessed for autologging new files.Preferably, these charges are on a rate per file plus rate per megabytebasis. Order transaction charges are charges assessed for assembling androuting job orders between users. Preferably, those charges are assessedon a rate per file plus rate per megabyte basis such as $6.00/file plus$1.00/MB. Document transfer charges are charges assessed for downloadingimages or routing documents between users without compiling a job order.Preferably, charges for these services are on a rate per file plus rateper megabyte basis such as $2.00/file plus $1.50/MB. Administrationcharges are charges assessed for the time spent by system users on imageprovider user projects such as adding new users, changing securitystatus, editing item records and editing autolog configurations. Thesecharges are preferably assessed on a rate per hour basis such as$150.00/hr.

Returning to FIG. 5, the housekeeping routine is completed by updatingthe databases, such as the activity database, to record invoicing of theservices and by preparing for further activity (block 704). Uponcompletion of the housekeeping routine, the system returns to Step 104of FIG. 3A where it continues to operate as described above.

The overall functional flow and architecture of the software of apreferred embodiment of a database management system constructed inaccordance with the teachings of the invention are shown generally inFIGS. 10A-10J. In the interest of brevity, the following descriptionwill refer back to, and rely upon, the above description of theoperating scheme of the overall system wherever possible.

FIG. 10A shows generally the initiation of the autolog routine at a usersite such as the offices of an image provider user 14. As illustrated inFIG. 10A, the database management system is preferably provided with ahot-folder transport system licensed from ION Publishing of Bethesda,Md. The hot-folder transport system provides a highly efficient andautomatic means for transferring files. Specifically, the hot-foldertransport system provides a graphical user interface wherein one or morefolders, each of which is associated with a particular destination orsending site, is displayed to a user. By simply dragging and dropping anicon representation of a file onto a destination folder, a user cantransmit that file to the predetermined destination associated with thedestination folder. The hot-folder system constantly monitors allconfigured folders for files. Configured destination folders holdsettings identifying the destination dropped files are to be sent; thelocation and type of network connection (dial-up or direct) that is tobe established; the service profile identifier, if it is a dial-up dataconnection; and the proper user identifier and password for access tothe remote site for transmitting files.

When a file is detected in a destination folder, the hot-folder systemautomatically moves the file to a processing queue, and then compressesthe file per predetermined compression settings. The communicationportion of the local computer then establishes a connection with thehost site 10 or other destination by automatically dialing or sending anetwork request; establishes a valid communication link; passesidentification information to the destination computer; and, once thecommunication link is established, transmits the file. The file remainsstored in a temporary file associated with the hot-folder system at thesending site until complete transmission and acknowledgement occur. Thetransmitted file will then appear in a receiving folder at thedestination site. By selecting a receiving folder, a user at thedestination site can access the transmitted file.

Of course, a user can have multiple destination and receiving foldersconfigured on their local system. Three destination folders 701 areshown in FIG. 10A.

Returning to FIG. 10A, the transmitting operation of the hot-folderingsystem is illustrated by blocks 700-708 in the context of an imageprovider user forwarding a new digital image to the host system 10 forstorage. After a user drops the image file on the destination folder 701associated with the host site 10, the hot-foldering system takes over.The hot-foldering system, which monitors the destination folders (block702) compresses the image file pursuant to the predetermined userselected settings in the local configuration database 708 and, then,also based on the information in the configuration database 708,establish a connection with the host site 10 (block 706). The image fileis then transmitted to the host site 10.

As shown in FIG. 10B, upon receiving the digital image file (block 710),the hot-foldering software at the host site 10 automaticallydecompresses the file (block 712) and stores it (block 714) to areceiving folder 716. The decompression and routing to the appropriatereceiving folder 716 is performed pursuant to predetermined settings inthe configuration database 720 at the host site 10. The image fileremains in a receiving folder 716 until the autolog server 34 is free toprocess the file.

When the autolog server 34 is available, the autolog routine will becalled (block 718). The autolog routine is then performed as describedabove in connection with FIGS. 4A-4C. As the autolog routine proceeds,the activity database 725 (shown in FIG. 10E) is updated by the autologserver 34 to log the arrival of the new file; a new item record isstored in the image database 727; if the new file is an image file, athumbnail representation of the new file is stored in the image database727 with the item record, and a low resolution image is stored in thefile system 729 (FIG. 10E); the original copy of the new file is storedto the file system 729; and, if an OPI or other special low resolutionformat file is created, it is stored to the file system 729. The filesystem 729 corresponds to the image database, and is implemented by theSQL database and file storage servers 30, 28.

As shown in FIG. 10J, if authorized, a user can access the host site 10to perform various administrative functions. Typically, the imageprovider user 14 will have the highest authorization and will be theuser-type performing these administrative activities most frequently. Asshown in FIG. 10J, authorized users can access the file system 729 toperform database maintenance (block 740) such as marking files forpurging, unmarking files previously marked for purge, and editing datarecords. Authorized users can also access the image database 727 toperform file maintenance (block 742) such as updating item records.Additionally, authorized users can access the activity database 725 toobtain records and reports (block 748), or to perform troubleshooting(block 750). As part of the troubleshooting feature, the user ispreferably able to store and forward messages to personnel at the hostsite 10 who can address technical and billing questions. This featurecan also be used to route messages to other users on the system. Asshown in FIG. 10J, the reports requested by the user can be downloadedas hard copies or displayed on a video display device (block 752).Finally, authorized users can access the configuration database 731(block 746) to perform administrative activities such as adding newusers, changing parameters such as compression and file formatinformation for use in the autolog routine; and adjusting securityclearances for users. Of course, in any of the above scenarios (blocks740, 742, 744, 746) user access is preferably strictly limited such thata user can only access information to which it has been affirmativelygranted access. For example, image provider user A and the users itauthorizes, will preferably not have access to the information of imageprovider user B, unless image provider user B has expressly authorizedsuch access.

In the event a user wishes to download an image for use in the creationof a document or the like, the user would first log in (block 754). Asshown in FIG. 10C, the user logs on by establishing a communicationconnection with the host system 10 through an internet browser such asNetscape or Microsoft Explorer, or through any of the other connectionsdescribed above (755). The internet server or communication serverestablishes the connection at the host site 10 (block 757 in FIG. 10D).Once the connection is established, the user attempts to log in byentering a client name, a user identification name, and a password(block 756). As shown in FIG. 10D, the host site 10 receives this data(block 758) and authenticates it (block 760) by comparing it to the datastored in the configuration database (762). Subsequently, the systemnotifies the user of a denial or acceptance of the log in attempt (block764).

Assuming that a proper log in has been performed, the user will beprovided with an option screen 766. As shown in FIG. 10C, the optionsscreen 766 includes a menu 767 across the top of the screen. This menupreferably includes “Browse”, “Order” and “Help” selections. In FIG.10C, the “Browse” selection has been chosen and is, thus, shown in boldtype. When one of the menu options is selected, a pull-down menu ispreferably provided. A preferred pull-down menu for the “Browse”selection is shown in FIG. 10C. A preferred pull-down menu for the“Order” selection is shown in FIG. 10F.

Assuming for the moment that the user wishes to browse the imagedatabase to which it has been granted access, the user is presented withthe five options shown in FIG. 10C, namely, “Search database” 768,“Thumbnails” 770, “Details” 772, “Reports” 774, and “Download” 776. Asno search has yet been performed in this example, the only activeoptions are the “Search Database” option 768 and the “Reports” option774. Upon selecting the “Search Database” option, a search requestscreen 778 will be displayed. As shown in FIG. 10C, the search requestscreen 778 provides the user with an opportunity to define parametersfor a search. In the preferred embodiment, those parameters include: thefilename of a desired file, if known; an image ID of a particular storedimage, if known; the class, subclass, and/or category of the type ofdata desired; the date on which the file was saved; and the type offile. The user must fill in at least one of these parameters to initiatea search. Upon receiving the desired parameters, the host site 10processes the search query (block 780, FIG. 10D), accesses the imagedatabase 727 (block 782), and builds search results (block 784).

The user can now select a display format for the search results. If theuser selects the “Thumbnails” option 770, the thumbnail imagescorresponding to the item records identified in the search will bedisplayed 786. If the user selects the “Details” option 772, selectedfields from the item records identified in the search along with acorresponding thumbnail for each such item record will be displayed oneat a time 788.

Regardless of the viewing format chosen, the user can select an imagefor downloading by clicking on a corresponding thumbnail and selectingthe “Download” option 776. The host site 10 processes the downloadrequest (block 790) by accessing the file system 729 (block 792) anddownloading low resolution copies of the requested files (block 794) tothe requesting user. The user can then log off and develop one or moredocuments using the downloaded image(s).

As mentioned above, the user can also select the “Reports” option 774 toobtain statistical and billing information reports. If the “Reports”option 774 is selected, the reports screen 796 providing a further menuof options is displayed. As shown in FIG. 10C, that menu can includeoptions such as “Current Search Results”, “Browsing Activity”, “StorageStatistics”, and “Order Transactions”. If any of these selections aremade, the system 10 processes the activity request (block 798), accessesthe activity database 725 (block 800), compiles and downloads therequested report (block 802). As mentioned above, these reports can beviewed on a video screen at the user site or downloaded to an outputdevice such as a printer at the user site.

Assuming a user has created a file including an image downloaded fromthe host site via the “Browse” menu described above in connection withFIGS. 10C-10D, a user can place a work order and request that it bedelivered to a second destination for publishing or the like. To thisend, a user would first log in to the host site 10 in the mannerdescribed above in connection with FIGS. 10C-10D.

Assuming a successful log in has occurred, the user is presented withthe options screen 766 described above. In FIG. 10F, the “Order”selection is shown in bold type because it has been selected. As aresult of this selection, a new pull-down menu with the options “NewOrder” 810, “Add Images” 812, “Attachments” 814, “Send Order” 816, and“Status (Read)” 818 is displayed. Since the user has just logged on,only the “New Order” and “Status (Read)” selections 810, 818 areavailable.

If selected, the “Status (Read)” selection 818 will cause status screen843 to be displayed. As shown in FIG. 10F, screen 843 displays thestatus of any recently place work orders. Preferably, the screendisplays a unique number associated with the order for trackingpurposes, the date the order was placed, an identification numberassociated with the client under whose authorization the order wasplaced, and the status of the order. Preferably, the status categorywill indicate that the order is in transit, the order has beendelivered, confirmation has been sent to the sending user, that a unreadmessage related to the order is pending, or that an error has occurred.Unread messages are messages from the host site 10 concerning the workorder. These messages can be viewed by selecting the appropriate orderon the status screen 843 and clicking the “detail” button 845 shown inFIG. 10F.

Assuming for purposes of explanation, the user wishes to place an orderand selects the “New Order” option 810, the host site 10 downloads acustom e-mail form 820 (block 822 in FIG. 10G). If desired, the userwill then fill in the e-mail form 820 with a short description andinstructions for the receiver of the job order at the seconddestination. The user may then select the “Add Images” option 812,whereupon screen 824 will be displayed. The software is preferablyconfigured to display the filenames of all recently downloaded images.The user can select one or more images from this list to be included inthe work order by highlighting the desired filenames and clicking on“Add” 826. If the user wishes to remove filenames from the list, theuser would select the filename to be removed and click on the “Remove”icon 828. Additional details about the files named in the list can bedisplayed by clicking on the desired filename with a mouse or otherinput device and selecting the “Detail” option 830.

The user may also specify attachments to be included in the work orderby selecting the “Attachments” option 814. Examples of attachments whichmight be included in a work order include page description languagefiles prepared using Quark® Express or some other publishing program. Inany event, the attachments screen 832 will be displayed when the“Attachments” option 814 is selected. The user can select the “Add”,“Remove” or “Detail” icons 832, 834, 836 to respectively add attachmentsto the list, remove attachments from the list, and display detailedinformation concerning files appearing on the list.

When the work order is accurate and complete, the user will select the“Send Order” option 818 to display the send screen 840. The user canthen select a destination from a list of jobbers 16 such as publishersobtained by clicking the “Supplier” icon 842. The user will also choosethe method to notify the selected jobber/supplier 16 that a job has beensent. In the preferred embodiment, that notification can be by facsimileor e-mail. If the “Certified” option 844 is selected, the sending userwill automatically receive an acknowledgement that the notification wassuccessfully transmitted to the jobber. The user can then send the workorder by selecting the “Send” option 846.

When the “Send” option 846 is selected, the user's computer will preparethe work order by locating any attachments; preparing a data fileincluding the supplier name, the e-mail form, and the filenames of theimages in the work order; and compressing the work order for efficienttransmission. The user's computer will then send the work order to thehost site 10.

As shown in FIG. 10G, upon receipt of the work order (block 850), thehost site 10 will parse the work order for the identifications of imagesto be included in the job order and the name of the supplier 16 (block852) to receive the job. The address of the jobber 16 will be located inthe configuration database 731 (block 854) and high resolution copies ofthe identified files will be downloaded from the file system 729 (block856). The assembled job order including the high resolution copies ofthe images selected by any user and the user created attachments such asPDL files, will then be automatically transferred to a sendinghot-folder associated with the selected destination (block 858). Thehot-folder transport system will then take over, compressing the joborder and transferring the job order to the selected destination asdescribed above in connection with FIG. 10A. Specifically, thehot-folder system compresses the work order in accordance with theuser-defined algorithm stored in the configuration database; establishesa connection with the destination site by automatically dialing orsending a network request; establishes a valid communication link;passes log in information; and transmits the job order. The job orderremains stored on the host system 10 until it is completely transmittedand an acknowledgement is received. After the job order is sent, thehost system 10 logs off and records the transmission activity to anactivity log tracking file in the activity database. The transmission isalso logged in the activity database for later billing.

The host site then faxes or e-mails the e-mail form prepared by thesending user to the jobber 16 to provide notification that a job orderhas been transmitted. If the user requested certification, a messageconfirming successful transmission of the e-mail or fax will be sentback to the sending user by the host site 10.

Turning to FIG. 10I, the destination user/supplier 16 receives the faxor e-mail notification of the job order transmission (block 860) fromthe mail server 26 of the host site 10. As shown in FIG. 10I, thehot-foldering software at the jobber site 16 will have preferablyalready received the job order (block 862); decompressed the job order(block 864); and stored the job order to the appropriate incoming folder(block 866). The jobber 16 can then access the job order by clicking onthe appropriate incoming folder icon. The e-mail description andinstruction form can be stored on the supplier's local computer orprinted out as desired.

As shown in FIG. 10H, administrative tasks can be performed by systememployees at the host site 10. Thus, authorized users can performdatabase maintenance 740 and file maintenance 742, including purgingfiles and backing-up the system databases (block 870). The system userscan also perform activity reporting (block 744) including, by way ofexample, invoicing, browsing, downloading, report generating, documentpassing and troubleshooting, as shown in blocks 748 and 750. The systemusers may also perform user administration functions (block 746) such asadding or deleting clients; adjusting security clearances; adding ordeleting users; editing item records; and editing autolog configurations(block 754). Finally, as shown in FIG. 10H, the host site 10 can storeand forward messages between users and between users and the host site(block 872) via the mail server 26.

In an optional embodiment, the host site 10 is configured toautomatically set up hot-folders on the local systems of affected userswhen new users or new relationships between users are established. Forexample, if Client A adds new user B to the system and wants new user Bto have hot-folder connections to Client A's offices and Supplier B andC's facilities, the system 10 automatically connects to, and creates,receiving and sending hot-folder files on the local systems of Client A,User B, and Suppliers B and C. This scheduled replication is shown inFIGS. 10A, 10B and 10E as automatic modifications to the localconfiguration databases of the users and host site 10.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that, although the inventionhas been described in the context of certain preferred embodiments, manymodifications can be made thereto without departing from the scope orspirit of the invention. For example, while in the above embodiments thehost site 10 has been described as a single location, the host site 10can be distributed across multiple geographic locations. Multiple sitescan be used, for example, to provide quicker access and lowertelecommunication cost to frequently used files. Also, the host site canprovide a mirroring storage system for the databases at a remotefacility in a separate geographic location for security and disasterrecovery purposes. Further, while the database management system hasbeen described in the context of users located in separate geographiclocations, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that thehost site 10 and users 12, 14, 16 can all be located within a singlebuilding or organization without departing from the scope of theinvention.

Those skilled in the art will further appreciate that, among othersignificant advantages of the disclosed database management and orderdelivery system, the disclosed system advantageously provides anintelligent order delivery system which achieves an automatic,integrated workflow for transferring digital assets between multipleusers.

Those skilled in the art will further appreciate that although, for easeof explanation, the steps performed by the system were described asoccurring in a particular time sequence, the operation of the system isnot limited to any temporal arrangement. On the contrary, the notedoperations can be performed in any order without departing from thescope or spirit of the invention.

Finally, those skilled in the art will further appreciate that, althoughthe invention has been described in connection with certain embodiments,there is no intent to limit the invention thereto. On the contrary, theintention of this application is to cover all modifications andembodiments fairly falling within the scope of the appended claimseither literally or under the doctrine of equivalents.

What is claimed is:
 1. A data management system comprising: anelectronic storage facility for providing storage for digital assets ofa plurality of unrelated asset provider users, at least some of thedigital assets stored in the electronic storage facility including firstsets of data each having a first bandwidth communication requirement andsecond sets of data each representative of an associated one of thefirst sets of data and having a second bandwidth communicationrequirement less than the first bandwidth communication requirement, theelectronic storage facility storing the digital assets of a first one ofthe asset provider users such that the digital assets of the first assetprovider user can only be accessed by authorized users identified by thefirst asset provider and such that the digital assets of the first assetprovider user are transparent to users that are not authorized by thefirst asset provider user; means for allowing an authorized useridentified by the first asset provider to download a particular secondset of data from the storing means to a first location; means foraccepting a work order from the authorized user at the first locationwherein the work order identifies a second location as an intendeddestination of the work order, identifies the particular second set ofdata, and further includes data developed outside the system; job orderdevelopment means responsive to the accepting means for developing a joborder including both (a) the first set of data associated with theparticular second set of data and (b) the data developed outside thesystem; and means for electronically routing the job order to the secondlocation.
 2. A system as defined in claim 1 wherein the first set ofdata comprises high resolution digital images, and the second set ofdata comprises low resolution digital images.
 3. A system as defined inclaim 2 wherein the high resolution digital images are input to thesystem by the first asset provider user.
 4. A system as defined in claim3 further comprising image handling means for processing the highresolution digital images input by the first asset provider user, theimage handling means being adapted to develop low resolution images ofthe high resolution digital images received from the first assetprovider user and to store both the high resolution digital images andthe low resolution images in the storage facility in an addressablefashion for future searching.
 5. A system as defined in claim 1 furthercomprising event tracking means for monitoring and recording predefinedevents occurring in the system.
 6. A system as defined in claim 5wherein the predefined events comprise one of the group consisting of:storing new data in the storing means; deleting data from the storingmeans; connecting to the system; disconnecting from the system;conducting a search of the data stored in the storing means; downloadingdata from the first set of data stored in the storing means; downloadingdata from the second set of data stored in the storing means; androuting the work order to a user.
 7. A system as defined in claim 5further comprising means for developing an indication of a charge to beassessed a user when at least one of the predefined events is recordedby the event tracking means.
 8. A system as defined in claim 7 whereinthe charge developing means automatically generates invoices on aperiodic basis.
 9. A system as defined in claim 8 wherein the routingmeans automatically routes the invoices to at least one user responsiblefor payment.
 10. A system as defined in claim 1 wherein the routingmeans automatically electronically routes the job order to the secondlocation.
 11. A system as defined in claim 10 wherein the routing meansautomatically sends a facsimile to the second location notifying thesecond location of the job order being routed.
 12. A system as definedin claim 10 wherein the routing means automatically sends an e-mailmessage to the second location notifying the second location of the joborder being routed.
 13. A system as defined in claim 1 wherein the joborder defines a document to be printed, the second location is aprinting facility, and the first set of data downloaded by thedownloading means is to be printed as part of the document.
 14. A systemas defined in claim 13 wherein the allowing means, the accepting means,the routing means and the downloading means are implemented by at leastone programmed processing device.
 15. A system as defined in claim 14wherein the at least one programmed processing device is implemented bya file storage server and an autolog server interconnected forco-operative operation.
 16. A system as defined in claim 15 wherein theat least one programmed processing device is further implemented by adatabase server.
 17. A system as defined in claim 14 wherein the atleast one programmed device, the first location, and the second locationare interconnected by a network.
 18. A system as defined in claim 1further comprising a communication device to permit users to communicatewith the system.
 19. A system as defined in claim 18 wherein thecommunication device is implemented by an internet server, atelecommunications server, and an e-mail server.
 20. A system as definedin claim 1 wherein the storing means is implemented by an image storagedevice and a data storage device.
 21. A system as defined in claim 20wherein the image storage device comprises an optical disk robot and anoptical data reader.
 22. A system as defined in claim 20 wherein thedata storage device comprises a RAID system.
 23. A system as defined inclaim 1 further comprising means for searching the storing means inresponse to user inputs to develop the particular second set of data.24. A system as defined in claim 1 wherein the data developed outsidethe system and included in the work order comprises a page descriptionlanguage file and the first set of data in the job order comprises a bitmapped image.
 25. A system as defined in claim 1 further comprising:means for receiving digital data from an asset provider user to bestored in the storage facility; and, means for compressing the digitaldata received by the receiving means in accordance with a parameter setby the asset provider user.
 26. A system as defined in claim 25 whereinthe digital data received from the asset provider user is used todevelop the first and second data sets.
 27. A system as defined in claim25 wherein the parameter defines a compression format to be employed bythe compressing means.
 28. A system as defined in claim 25 wherein theparameter defines a degree of compression to be employed by thecompressing means.
 29. A system as defined in claim 25 furthercomprising means for developing an indication of a charge to be assessedthe as provider user for storing the digital data in the storagefacility.
 30. A system as defined in claim 29 wherein the chargedeveloping means develops the charge based on the amount of storagememory utilized by the digital data.
 31. A digital data storage facilityas defined in claim 30 wherein the charge developing means develops afurther charge based on the amount of time the digital data is stored inthe storage facility.
 32. A system as defined in claim 1 furthercomprising means for translating the particular second set of data intoa file format defined by the authorized user before the allowing meansdownloads the particular second set of data.
 33. A system as defined inclaim 1 further comprising means for translating data received by thesystem into a file format defined by the authorized user before storingthe received data in the facility.
 34. A data management systemcomprising: a storage device for providing paid storage for digitalassets of a plurality of unrelated asset provider users, at least someof the digital assets stored in the electronic storage facilityincluding first sets of data each having a first bandwidth requirementand second sets of data each representative of an associated one of thefirst sets of data and having a second bandwidth requirement less thanthe first bandwidth requirement, the storage device storing the digitalassets of a first one of the asset provider users such that the digitalassets of the first asset provider user can only be accessed byauthorized users identified by the first asset provider and such thatthe digital assets of the first asset provider user are transparent tousers that are not authorized by the first asset provider user; a searchengine for searching among sets of data stored in the storage device; acommunication device operable to allow remote communication by a userwith the system including means for sending a particular second set ofdata to a user in response to a user request to the search engine; meansfor accepting a user-defined work order from a first location via thecommunication device wherein the work order identifies a second locationas an intended destination of the work order, identifies the particularsecond set of data, and includes further data developed outside thesystem; a router for electronically routing a job order to a secondlocation, the job order including the first set of data associated withthe particular second set of data identified in the work order.
 35. Adigital image management and order delivery system comprising: a storagedevice for providing storage for digital images of a plurality ofunrelated asset provider users, the storage device storing the digitalimages of a first one of the asset provider users such that the digitalimages of the first asset provider user can only be accessed byauthorized users identified by the first asset provider user and suchthat the digital images of the first asset provider user are transparentto users that are not authorized by the first asset provider user; asearching engine for developing a subset of the digital images stored inthe storage device by the first asset provider user in response toinputs received from a first authorized user identified by the firstasset provider user, the searching engine being adapted to download lowresolution copies of the subset to the first authorized user; a joborder developer responsive to inputs received from the first authorizeduser for developing a job order which includes: a) at least one highresolution copy of a digital image contained in the subset andidentified by the first authorized user, and b) a file containinginformation developed by the first authorized user outside of thesystem; and, a router for electronically routing the job order developedby the job order developer to a second user specified by the firstauthorized user.
 36. A system as defined in claim 35 wherein the digitalimages are input to the system by the first asset provider user via acommunication device.
 37. A system as defined in claim 36 furthercomprising an image handler for processing the digital images input bythe first asset provider user, the image handler being adapted todevelop low resolution images of the digital images received from thefirst asset provider user and to store both the digital images receivedfrom the first asset provider and the low resolution images thereof inthe storage device in an addressable fashion for future searching.
 38. Asystem as defined in claim 36 further comprising means for translatingthe digital images received by the system into a file format defined bythe first asset provider user before storing the digital images in thestorage device.
 39. A system as defined in claim 35 further comprisingan event tracker for monitoring and recording predefined eventsoccurring in the system.
 40. A system as defined in claim 39 wherein thepredefined events comprise one of the group consisting of: storing a newdigital image in the storage device; deleting a stored digital imagefrom the storage device; connecting to the system; disconnecting fromthe system; conducting a search of the digital images stored in thestorage device; downloading a low resolution copy of one of the digitalimages stored in the storage device; downloading a high resolution copyof one of the digital images stored in the storage device; and routing awork order to a user.
 41. A system as defined in claim 39 furthercomprising means for developing an indication of a charge to be assesseda user when at least one of the predefined events is recorded by theevent tracker.
 42. A system as defined in claim 41 wherein the chargedeveloping means automatically generates invoices on a periodic basis.43. A system as defined in claim 42 wherein the router automaticallyroutes the invoices to the users responsible for payment.
 44. A systemas defined in claim 35 further comprising means for developingminiaturized depictions of the subset developed by the searching engine.45. A system as defined in claim 44 further comprising first means fordownloading the miniaturized depictions of the subset to the firstauthorized user, and, second means responsive to inputs from the firstauthorized user for downloading at least one low resolution copycorresponding to a selected one of the miniaturized depictions.
 46. Asystem as defined in claim 44 wherein the router automaticallyelectronically routes the job order to the second user.
 47. A system asdefined in claim 46 wherein the router automatically sends a facsimileto the second user notifying the second user of the job order beingrouted.
 48. A system as defined in claim 46 wherein the routerautomatically sends an e-mail message to the second user notifying thesecond user of the job order being routed.
 49. A system as defined inclaim 35 wherein the file defines a document to be printed, the seconduser is a printer, and the at least one high resolution image is to beprinted as part of the document.
 50. A system as defined in claim 49wherein the searching engine, the job order developer and the router areimplemented by at least one programmed processing device.
 51. A systemas defined in claim 50 wherein the at least one programmed processingdevice is implemented by a file storage server and an autolog serverinterconnected for co-operative operation.
 52. A system as defined inclaim 51 wherein the at least one programmed processing device isfurther implemented by a database server.
 53. A system as defined inclaim 50 wherein the at least one programmed processing device, thefirst user, and the second user are interconnected by a network.
 54. Asystem as defined in claim 35 further comprising a communication devicefor receiving and transmitting data to one or more remote users.
 55. Asystem as defined in claim 54 wherein the communication device isimplemented by an internet server, a telecommunications server, and ane-mail server.
 56. A system as defined in claim 35 wherein the storagedevice is implemented by an image storage device and a data storagedevice.
 57. A system as defined in claim 56 wherein the image storagedevice comprises an optical disk robot and an optical data reader.
 58. Asystem as defined in claim 56 wherein the data storage device comprisesa RAID system.
 59. A system as defined in claim 35 further comprising:means for receiving digital data from the first asset provider user tobe stored in the storage device; and, means for compressing the digitaldata received by the receiving means in accordance with a parameter setby the first asset provider user.
 60. A system as defined in claim 35wherein the parameter defines a compression format to be employed by thecompressing means.
 61. A system as defined in claim 35 wherein theparameter defines a degree of compression to be employed by thecompressing means.
 62. A system as defined in claim 36 furthercomprising means for developing an indication of a charge to be assessedthe first asset provider user for storing the digital data in thestorage device.
 63. A system as defined in claim 62 wherein the chargedeveloping means develops the charge based on the amount of storagememory utilized by the digital data.
 64. A digital data storage facilityas defined in claim 63 wherein the charge developing means develops afurther charge based on the amount of time the digital data is stored inthe storage device.
 65. A system as defined in claim 35 furthercomprising means for translating the low resolution copies of the subsetinto a file format defined by the first authorized user before thesearching engine downloads the low resolution copies of the subset tothe first authorized user.
 66. A digital image management and orderdelivery system comprising: a storage device for providing paid storagefor digital assets of a plurality of unrelated asset provider users, atleast some of the digital assets stored in the storage device containingdigital images, the digital images including both a high resolution copyand a low resolution copy of each of the digital images; a chargedeveloper which accesses charges to the plurality of unrelated assetprovider users based on at least one of an amount of storage memoryutilized by the digital assets of the charged asset provider user and anamount of time the digital assets of the charged asset provider user arestored in the storage device; a processor coupled to the storage devicefor permitting access to the digital images of a first asset provideruser by a first predefined user identified by the first asset provideruser, the processor providing a searching engine for addressing andretrieving the digital images, the processor being adapted to downloadlow resolution copies of the digital images to the first predefined useridentified by the first asset provider user and to provide highresolution copies of the digital images to a second predefined userspecified by the first predefined user; the processor being furtheradapted to automatically electronically route documents created by thefirst predefined user to the second predefined user, the processordownloading high resolution copies corresponding to the low resolutioncopies of the digital images identified by the first predefined user tothe second predefined user for inclusion in the documents.
 67. A methodof managing digital images comprising the steps of: storing a highresolution and a low resolution copy of each of a first plurality ofdigital images provided by a first asset provider user in anelectronically searchable format on a storage device; storing a highresolution and a low resolution copy of each of a second plurality ofdigital images provided by a second asset provider user in anelectronically searchable format on the storage device; permitting afirst authorized user identified by the first asset provider user tolocate and download a low resolution copy of at least one of the digitalimages provided by the first asset provider user, the second pluralityof images being transparent to the first authorized user; receiving anelectronic file defining a document from the first authorized user, thedocument being designed to incorporate the at least one digital imageand data developed outside of the system; receiving instructions fromthe first authorized user directing that the electronic file bedelivered to a second user; and, automatically electronically routingthe electronic file and a high resolution copy of the at least onedigital image to the second user identified by the first authorizeduser.
 68. A digital data storage facility for providing storage for aplurality of third party users comprising: a storage device; means forreceiving digital data from a user in the plurality; means forcompressing the digital data received by the receiving means inaccordance with a parameter set by the user; and, means for storing thedigital data compressed by the compressing means in the storage device.69. A digital data storage facility as defined in claim 68 wherein theparameter defines a compression format to be employed by the compressingmeans.
 70. A digital data storage facility as defined in claim 68wherein the parameter defines a degree of compression to be employed bythe compressing means.
 71. A digital data storage facility as defined inclaim 68 further comprising means for developing an indication of acharge to be assessed the user for storing the digital data in thestorage device.
 72. A digital data storage facility as defined in claim71 wherein the charge developing means develops the charge based on theamount of storage memory utilized by the digital data.
 73. A digitaldata storage facility as defined in claim 72 wherein the chargedeveloping means develops a further charge based on the amount of timethe digital data is stored in the storage device.
 74. A digital imagemanagement and order delivery system comprising: a storage device forstoring digital images received from a first digital image provider anda second digital image provider; a searching engine for developing asubset of the digital images stored in the storage device in response toinputs received from a first user, the searching engine being adapted todownload low resolution copies of the subset to the first user; a joborder developer responsive to inputs received from the first user fordeveloping a job order which includes at least one high resolution copyof a digital image contained in the subset and identified by the firstuser; and, a router for electronically routing the job order developedby the job order developer to a second user specified by the first user;and a user identifier for discriminating between users communicatingwith the system to control user access to the digital images stored inthe storage device, the user identifier limiting access to the digitalimages provided by the first digital image provider to at least one useridentified by the first digital image provider, wherein the digitalimages provided by the first image provider are transparent to all usersexcept users identified by the first digital image provider.